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#### Test Description
The Genexpert PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for Tuberculosis (TB), also known as the Xpert MTB/RIF assay, is a rapid molecular diagnostic test used to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and resistance to rifampin (RIF) in both pulmonary and extrapulmonary specimens. The assay performs sample processing and PCR analysis in a single hands-free step, allowing for the rapid diagnosis of TB disease and drug resistance[2][3].
#### Indications of the Test
The test is indicated for individuals suspected of having TB, especially those at risk of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR TB), as it can quickly identify possible MDR TB by detecting RIF resistance, which is a predictor of MDR TB[2][4].
#### Patient Preparation/Instructions
No special patient preparation is required for the Genexpert PCR test. The test typically involves the collection of sputum or other relevant specimens for analysis.
#### Typical Reference Values
The typical reference values for the Genexpert PCR test are the presence or absence of MTBC and RIF resistance in the patient’s specimen.
#### Turnaround Time
The assay can generally be completed in less than 2 hours, providing rapid results for the detection of TB and drug resistance[3][4].
#### Order This Test
You can order the Genexpert PCR test by clicking the “Order Test” button and adding it to your cart.
Citations:
[1] Utility of the GeneXpert Mycobacterium tuberculosis/Rifampin (MTB/RIF) Assay on Paraffin-Embedded Biopsy Tissue Samples for Detecting Tuberculosis: Comparison With Histopathology https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7802736/
[2] TB Diagnostic Tool: Xpert MTB/RIF Assay Fact Sheet https://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/testing/xpert_mtb-rif.htm
[3] Evaluation of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF Assay for Rapid Diagnosis of Tuberculosis and Detection of Rifampin Resistance in Pulmonary and Extrapulmonary Specimens https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3232962/
[4] CS245594-A https://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/pdf/xpertmtb-rifassayfactsheet_final.pdf
[5] The Need https://www.cepheid.com/en-US/tests/tb-emerging-infectious-diseases/xpert-mtb-rif.html
By Perplexity at https://www.perplexity.ai/search/c263c314-152e-44ca-85d2-5d28505aae5d?s=m
